How to Protect Your Home in Extreme Weather

Everyone loves a light winter dusting that turns the world from dismal gray to wonderland white. But what happens when the weather takes a turn for the worst can look more like a nightmare for the typical homeowner than anything else. Before the winter hits, be sure to check out these smart tips on how to protect your home against extreme weather conditions.

#1 Stock up on de-icers

Some people like salt or sand, while others will only use chemical de-icers. Whichever brand and texture you prefer, make sure to have plenty of de-icing solution for your walkways, steps, driveways, and decks. You can also spray an ice repellant.

#2 Shovel, but not too much

Make sure your roof doesn’t get overloaded by the weight of the snow by shoveling before the load gets too much. Don’t spend too much time on the roof though because prolonged time up there can be a major safety hazard.

#3 Prevent frozen pipes

Keep pipes from freezing over by disconnecting/draining garden hoses, covering exterior faucets and piping with insulation, turn off sprinkler systems, keep a slight drip inside faucets for really extreme cold, and close foundation vents beneath the house. Drain any fountains or birdbaths.

#4 Run a general maintenance check

Before the weather hits, make sure your home is up to snuff, so it can withstand the pitfalls of the winter. Check roof shingles, make sure windows seal and lock properly, and check for drafts from any other opened or exposed areas. Have the furnace or heating units inspected and repaired as necessary.

#5 Implement miscellaneous preparations like…

- Put up storm windows

- Remove window-insert AC units

- Use caulk to seal any cracks in the exterior walls

- Clean the gutters and downspouts

You should also have a kit prepared at home in case of extreme weather. Have plenty of bottled water, long-storage food such as cans (don’t forget the non-electric can opener) and non-perishable dry goods, flashlights, batteries, medications, and form of entertainment on hand in case you get stormed in and can’t leave for several days. Also have appropriate clothing and bedding to stay warm.

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